Divorce Attorney Jacksonville, FL

How Could Immigration Status In 2026 Impact Your Florida Divorce?

Wendy Norman — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:59:10 +0000

UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS IN FLORIDA DIVORCES

In Florida, a person’s immigration status, including being undocumented, does not prevent him or her from filing for or obtaining a divorce provided at least one of the parties have been a resident of the state of Florida for 6 months prior to filing the case. Citizenship is not a factor; however, service of process can be difficult if the non-citizen spouse has left the United States. International process rules would apply to service.

There is also a concern about the potential impact on the non-citizen spouse’s immigration status. Divorce proceedings are typically separate from federal immigration enforcement, and Florida divorce courts are not required to contact U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding a party’s citizenship status. There is always a chance that other individuals may report undocumented status to ICE, however.

Undocumented immigrants have the same rights as U.S. Citizens in a divorce case, including division of marital property and debt, determination of child custody, visitation, and parenting plans, and child support and spousal support (alimony).

A divorce can affect a non-citizen’s ability to obtain or maintain legal status, especially if their status was contingent on being married to a U.S. citizen. It is important to consult with a family law attorney to help navigate potential risks in a divorce case involving an undocumented immigrant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an undocumented immigrant file for divorce in Florida?
Yes. Immigration status does not prevent someone from filing for or obtaining a divorce in Florida, as long as at least one spouse has been a Florida resident for six months before filing.

Will the court report my immigration status to ICE?
Florida divorce courts are not required to contact U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) about a party’s citizenship status. However, there is always a possibility that other individuals involved in the case could report someone’s undocumented status to ICE.

Do undocumented immigrants have the same rights in divorce as U.S. citizens?
Yes. Undocumented immigrants have the same legal rights in Florida divorce proceedings, including rights related to property division, child custody and visitation, child support, and alimony.

What if my spouse has left the United States?
If your spouse has left the country, serving them with divorce papers can be more complicated. International process rules would apply to properly serve them with notice of the divorce proceedings.

Can getting divorced affect my immigration status?
Yes, divorce can impact your ability to obtain or maintain legal immigration status, particularly if your status was based on being married to a U.S. citizen. This is an important consideration that should be discussed with both a family law attorney and an immigration attorney.

Should I consult with an attorney?
Yes. Given the complex interplay between divorce proceedings and immigration concerns, it is important to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can help you understand and navigate the potential risks involved in your specific situation.

How can I get legal help with my divorce?
For more information or to discuss your specific situation, please visit https://www.normanlawjax.com/ or contact Norman Law to speak with an attorney about your divorce case.

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Navigating Social Media During Your Separation

Wendy Norman — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 13:27:26 +0000

A Compassionate Guide to Manage Social Media During Separation

Going through a separation is one of life’s most challenging transitions. During this vulnerable time, you might find yourself reaching for your phone, wanting to share your feelings, seek support from friends, or simply distract yourself by scrolling through your feeds. I understand that impulse completely. Social media has become such an integral part of how we connect with our community and process our emotions.

However, as a divorce and mediation attorney who has worked with countless families in Jacksonville, I want to share some gentle but important guidance about social media use during your separation. What you post online today can significantly impact your divorce proceedings, custody arrangements, and ultimately, your fresh start tomorrow.

Why Social Media Matters in Divorce Cases

In today’s digital world, social media posts have become valuable evidence in divorce and custody proceedings. Attorneys routinely review Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and other platforms when building cases. That photo you posted, that check-in at a restaurant, or that seemingly innocent comment can be screenshot, saved, and potentially used in court.

I share this not to frighten you, but to help you protect yourself during an already difficult time. Knowledge is power, and understanding how social media can affect your case allows you to make informed decisions.

The Do’s: Healthy Social Media Habits During Separation

Do Take a Break (If Possible)

The healthiest option, if you can manage it, is to take a complete break from social media during your separation. I know this feels impossible in our connected world, but consider it a form of self-care. Stepping away from social media can give you space to heal, reduce stress, and eliminate the temptation to post something you might regret.

Even a temporary break of a few weeks or months can make a tremendous difference in your emotional wellbeing and legal position.

Do Adjust Your Privacy Settings

If stepping away completely isn’t realistic for you, immediately review and strengthen your privacy settings on all platforms. Make your accounts private, limit who can see your posts, and be selective about who you accept as friends or followers during this time.

However, please remember that privacy settings aren’t foolproof. Screenshots can be taken and shared. Mutual friends may have access to your content. Think of privacy settings as a helpful layer of protection, not an impenetrable shield.

Do Think Before You Post

Before sharing anything online, pause and ask yourself these questions:

Would I be comfortable with my spouse’s attorney seeing this?
Could this be misinterpreted or taken out of context?
Would I want a judge to see this when making decisions about my children or finances?
Am I posting this from a place of hurt, anger, or revenge?

If you hesitate on any of these questions, it’s best not to post.

Do Keep Communication About Your Children Positive

If you do post about your children, keep it positive, general, and infrequent. Celebrate their achievements if you must share, but avoid posting details about custody schedules, your co-parenting challenges, or anything that could be construed as disparaging the other parent.

Your children deserve privacy during this transition, and judges look favorably on parents who protect their children’s dignity and emotional wellbeing.

Do Document Concerning Posts by Your Spouse

If your spouse posts something concerning, threatening, or relevant to your case (such as evidence of hidden assets, substance use, or inappropriate behavior), take screenshots with dates and timestamps visible. Share these with your attorney, but don’t engage with the posts publicly or respond in kind.

Do Talk to Your Attorney First

Before making any significant social media decisions, including whether to change your relationship status or remove photos, consult with your attorney. Sometimes these actions can be misinterpreted or create legal complications you didn’t anticipate.

The Don’ts: What to Avoid on Social Media

Don’t Post About Your Case

This is perhaps the most important guideline: resist the urge to discuss your divorce, your spouse, the legal proceedings, or your feelings about the separation on social media. What feels like venting to supportive friends can appear very differently in a courtroom.

Complaints about your spouse, the legal process, attorneys, or the court system can damage your credibility and create the impression that you’re difficult, unstable, or vindictive.

Don’t Badmouth Your Spouse

No matter how hurt or angry you feel, do not post negative comments, accusations, or complaints about your spouse on social media. This includes indirect posts like “Some people just never change” or sharing memes about bad partners.

These posts can be used to argue that you’re hostile, that you’re attempting to alienate your children from the other parent, or that you’re not interested in peaceful co-parenting. In custody matters especially, judges want to see that you can communicate respectfully with your child’s other parent.

Don’t Share Details About New Relationships

If you’ve started dating someone new, keep that relationship entirely off social media until your divorce is finalized. Photos with a new partner, romantic check-ins, or relationship status changes can complicate property division, affect alimony considerations, and impact custody decisions.

Even if you’ve been separated for a while, the appearance of a new relationship can trigger strong emotional reactions that make settlement negotiations more difficult.

Don’t Post Photos or Updates That Contradict Your Legal Claims

Be mindful of how your posts might appear in the context of your legal case. If you’ve claimed financial hardship, vacation photos and expensive purchases create credibility problems. If you’re seeking custody based on being the more available parent, photos of frequent nights out may contradict that position.

This doesn’t mean you need to stop living your life, but it does mean you should keep those moments private rather than broadcasting them online.

Don’t Delete Everything

While it might be tempting to delete old posts, photos, or even entire accounts, don’t do this without consulting your attorney first. Deleting social media content after separation or during divorce proceedings can be considered destruction of evidence (called “spoliation”), which can result in serious legal consequences.

Courts can impose sanctions, and opposing counsel can argue that you deleted posts because they contained damaging information. Even if the deleted content was completely innocent, the act of deletion itself looks suspicious.

Don’t Forget About All Your Accounts

When I talk about social media, I mean all of it. Don’t forget about LinkedIn, dating apps, Venmo (which can show spending patterns and social connections), private messaging apps, Discord servers, Reddit accounts, and any other platforms where you have a digital presence.

Your digital footprint is larger than you might realize, and thorough attorneys will look everywhere.

Don’t Assume Anything Is Truly Private

Even private messages, closed groups, or direct messages aren’t completely private. Screenshots happen. People share information. Account security can be breached. Private communications have a way of becoming public, especially during contentious divorces.

Operate under the assumption that anything you type could potentially be seen by others, including the court.

Special Considerations for Parents

If you have children, social media requires extra care and thoughtfulness. Here are some additional guidelines:

Protect your children’s privacy. This is a confusing, difficult time for them. They don’t need details of the divorce shared with your entire social network. Avoid posting about custody schedules, exchanges, or challenges you’re having with your co-parent.

Never involve your children in social media conflicts. Don’t ask them to pose for photos that make statements about the divorce, don’t share their opinions about the other parent, and don’t let them see you posting negatively about their other parent.

Be aware that your children (and their friends) may see your posts. Even if you think your accounts are private from your kids, assume they’ll eventually see what you post. Would you want them to read those words about their other parent? Would those posts help them feel secure and loved?

Model healthy digital citizenship. Your children are watching how you handle this difficult situation. Showing restraint, dignity, and respect online teaches them valuable lessons about conflict resolution and emotional regulation.

The Emotional Challenge of Social Media Silence

I understand that staying silent on social media when you’re hurting can feel incredibly isolating. Social media has become how many of us process emotions, celebrate victories, and seek comfort during hard times. Being told to step back from that support system feels unfair when you’re already dealing with so much.

If you’re struggling with this, here are some alternative ways to find support:

Reach out privately. Call or text trusted friends and family members directly. Face-to-face coffee dates or phone conversations can provide much deeper support than Facebook comments ever could.

Join a support group. Many communities, including Jacksonville, have divorce support groups where you can share your experiences in a confidential setting with people who truly understand what you’re going through.

Work with a therapist. A counselor can provide a safe, confidential space to process all the emotions you’re experiencing without any risk to your legal case.

Journal privately. Writing out your feelings can provide the same release as posting online, without any of the legal risks. Keep a private journal where you can be completely honest about your emotions.

A Note About Your Spouse’s Social Media Activity

You might be wondering whether you should monitor your spouse’s social media during your separation. While it’s natural to be curious, obsessively checking your spouse’s accounts isn’t healthy for your emotional wellbeing.

That said, if you happen to notice posts that are relevant to your case (such as evidence of hidden income, inappropriate behavior, or concerning statements), document them and share them with your attorney. Just don’t make surveillance your full-time job. It will only prolong your pain and make it harder to move forward.

Looking Toward Your Fresh Start

I know these guidelines might feel restrictive during a time when you’re already dealing with so many limitations and losses. But please trust me when I tell you that this temporary restraint is an investment in your future.

The separation period is temporary. Your divorce case will eventually conclude. But what you post online can have lasting consequences for your settlement, your custody arrangement, your professional reputation, and your relationships with your children.

By being thoughtful and careful with your social media presence now, you’re protecting your interests and setting yourself up for the best possible outcome. You’re also modeling grace under pressure, taking the high road, and showing your children how to handle difficult situations with dignity.

How I Can Help

As a divorce and mediation attorney serving Jacksonville families, I understand how overwhelming this process can be. Social media is just one of many areas where you need to be careful during your separation. I’m here to guide you through all aspects of your divorce with compassion, clarity, and practical advice tailored to your unique situation.

If you have questions about your specific circumstances, whether they involve social media, custody, property division, or any other aspect of your separation, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can create a strategy that protects your interests while helping you move toward a brighter future.

Remember, this difficult season is temporary. With the right guidance and support, you will get through this and emerge stronger on the other side.

Wendy Norman is a divorce and mediation attorney serving Jacksonville, Florida, and surrounding areas. She is committed to helping families navigate separation and divorce with compassion, dignity, and practical legal guidance.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit normanlawjax.com or contact our office directly.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every divorce case is unique, and the information provided here may not apply to your specific situation. Please consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your individual circumstances.

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Is Your Relationship Quietly Slipping Away? New Study Reveals When Love Starts to Fade—And How Mediation Can Help You Divorce More Peacefully

Wendy Norman — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 15:33:54 +0000

Helpful insights for couples navigating relationship struggles, from the team at Norman Law in Jacksonville, FL

Most breakups don’t happen overnight. They unfold slowly, often over months—or even years—until one or both partners reach a breaking point. A new study sheds light on just how predictable this process can be, and more importantly, what you can do about it before things fall apart.

If you’re feeling a growing disconnect in your relationship—or already contemplating divorce—this post is for you. We’ll break down the study’s findings, offer signs your relationship may be heading toward a split, and share how divorce mediation can offer a more peaceful path forward for couples in Jacksonville, Florida.

A Look at the Science: When Relationships Start to Decline

A recent study shows that many couples experience two key phases before a breakup:

A slow decline in relationship satisfaction
A sharp drop in connection and intimacy, often occurring 7 to 28 months before the actual breakup

Interestingly, the partner who initiates the breakup often begins emotionally detaching about a year before the other does. This means that many relationships have silent warning signs long before anyone says, “I want out.”

These findings underscore one key truth: Most people don’t leave relationships impulsively—they check out emotionally first. That’s why recognizing the early signs of relationship distress can be so valuable.

Signs Your Relationship May Be Struggling

If you’re unsure whether your relationship is going through a rough patch or headed for a permanent split, here are some red flags to watch out for:

Your partner is emotionally distant or uncommunicative
You’re arguing more often—especially about small things
There’s little to no quality time together anymore
You feel misunderstood or like you’re “speaking different languages”
There’s been a noticeable drop in physical intimacy

While conflict isn’t always a bad sign (arguing shows that you still care), emotional apathy can be more troubling. When both partners stop fighting—and stop trying—that’s when a relationship may be nearing its end.

When Is a Relationship Beyond Repair?

Not every relationship can—or should—be saved. Here are some indicators that separation might be the healthiest option:

There’s mutual contempt or constant resentment
One or both partners refuse to change toxic patterns
There’s an unwillingness to take accountability
Deep differences in values, goals, or life priorities with no room for compromise

When these signs are present, continuing the relationship may do more harm than good.

Falling Out of Love? Here’s What You Can Do

If you’re starting to emotionally drift apart, it’s essential to address it—early.

Start with honest, respectful communication. Express how you’ve been feeling, and give your partner space to do the same. From there, consider working with a licensed couples therapist to rebuild connection and strengthen communication.

Therapy can help couples:

Learn to communicate more effectively
Cultivate mutual respect and appreciation
Build healthy coping tools for navigating conflict
Reconnect emotionally, sexually, and spiritually

And even if the relationship ultimately ends, therapy can provide clarity and closure—helping both partners move on with peace and dignity.

If Divorce Feels Inevitable, Consider a More Peaceful Option

If you’ve already tried therapy—or know in your heart that your marriage has run its course—it doesn’t mean things have to get ugly.

At Norman Law, we’ve seen how divorce mediation can offer a healthier, less stressful way to separate. Mediation provides a calm, structured environment to:

Resolve parenting time and custody without court battles
Fairly divide assets and debts
Set the groundwork for future cooperation (especially important if you share children)
Reduce legal fees, emotional strain, and long-term damage

Mediation is especially helpful when both parties are committed to ending the relationship with respect, fairness, and compassion—rather than blame or revenge.

Why Mediation Works

Unlike litigation, which pits spouses against each other in a courtroom, mediation promotes collaboration over conflict. It’s a process guided by a neutral third party—often a trained mediator or family law attorney—who helps couples reach agreements that work for everyone.

At Norman Law, we’re proud to offer divorce mediation services in Jacksonville that are thoughtful, efficient, and focused on creating positive outcomes for both spouses.

Whether you’ve just started having doubts or are ready to part ways, our team can help you explore your options—and choose the best path forward.

Final Thought: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

The most important takeaway from this recent study? Unhappiness doesn’t disappear on its own. If you’re feeling disconnected or unfulfilled in your relationship, take action—whether it’s through couples therapy, open communication, or beginning the divorce mediation process.

You deserve clarity, peace, and a path forward.

Need compassionate guidance during a relationship transition?
Contact Norman Law today to schedule a consultation and learn more about divorce mediation and peaceful resolutions for families in Jacksonville, FL.

Norman Law, P.A. – Helping Jacksonville families navigate divorce with dignity.

The post Is Your Relationship Quietly Slipping Away? New Study Reveals When Love Starts to Fade—And How Mediation Can Help You Divorce More Peacefully first appeared on Divorce Attorney Jacksonville, FL.

Navigating the Waves of Change: Florida Alimony Reform in 2023 and its Impact on Your Future

Wendy Norman — Sun, 28 Apr 2024 16:02:03 +0000

Navigating the Waves of Change: Florida Alimony Reform in 2023 and its Impact on Your Future

Divorce is undoubtedly one of life’s most challenging experiences, marked by emotional turbulence and legal complexities. For decades, alimony, or spousal support, has been a cornerstone of divorce settlements, providing financial stability for the lesser-earning spouse after the divorce. After years of alimony reform proposals, Florida alimony law changed as of July 1, 2023. The changes are significant and have reshaped the alimony landscape in the Sunshine State, ushering in a new era for divorcing couples and alimony recipients alike. As divorce attorneys focusing on your well-being, both during and after a divorce, we at Norman Law are ready to explain these changes and their implications for your future.

Understanding the Alimony Reforms:

Florida’s alimony reform in 2023 brought about substantial modifications to existing laws. One of the most significant changes is the end of permanent alimony. Permanent alimony resulted in long-term financial obligations for the paying spouse. However, under the new law, the duration of alimony is now capped based on the length of the marriage, providing clearer guidelines for both parties.

Additionally, the reform introduced guidelines for the calculation of the monthly amount of alimony payments, taking into account each spouse’s income and their individual financial needs. This standardized approach aims to ensure consistency and fairness in alimony awards, reducing the ambiguity that often characterizes divorce proceedings.

The new alimony law also addresses the issue of retirement and its impact on alimony payments. Previously, the party paying alimony faced challenges in modifying or terminating alimony upon reaching retirement age, even if their financial circumstances had significantly changed. However, the reformed law now provides clearer mechanisms for modifying alimony payments upon retirement, acknowledging the shifting financial realities that come with aging.

Implications for Divorcing Couples:

For divorcing couples in Florida, these alimony reforms have far-reaching implications that must be carefully considered. Firstly, the cap on the duration of alimony payments means that both parties need to plan for their financial futures accordingly. Whether you are the paying or receiving spouse, understanding the duration of your alimony obligation is crucial for financial planning and stability.

Moreover, the introduction of standardized guidelines for calculating alimony payments brings a level of predictability to divorce proceedings. While every case is unique and there may be factors that allow the court to deviate from the guidelines, having a clear framework can facilitate more efficient and amicable negotiations between spouses.

The reforms surrounding retirement and alimony underscore the importance of proactive planning. If you are approaching retirement age or foresee significant changes in your financial circumstances, it is essential to seek legal guidance to explore your options regarding alimony modification or termination.

Navigating the Future with Norman Law:

As seasoned divorce attorneys, we at Norman Law understand the intricacies of Florida’s alimony laws and how they impact divorcing couples. Our mission is to provide compassionate guidance and unwavering support to clients as they navigate the complexities of divorce and alimony.

Whether you are contemplating divorce, in the midst of negotiations, or seeking post-divorce modifications, Norman Law is here to advocate for your best interests every step of the way. With a deep commitment to achieving fair and equitable outcomes, we will work tirelessly to protect your rights and secure your financial future.

Conclusion:

The landscape of alimony in Florida underwent significant transformation with the reforms implemented in 2023. While change can be daunting, it also presents an opportunity for divorcing couples to navigate their futures with greater clarity and confidence.

As you embark on this journey, remember that you do not have to navigate it alone. With the guidance of the knowledgeable and compassionate attorneys at Norman Law, you can face the challenges of divorce with resilience and determination, emerging stronger and more empowered on the other side.

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8 Tips for Co-Parenting Success: Summer Vacation with Kids After Separation

Wendy Norman — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 20:39:47 +0000

Navigating Summer Vacation with Kids After Separation: 8 Tips for Co-Parenting Success

Summer vacation is a time for children to relax, explore, and create lasting memories. However, for parents who are separated or divorced, managing summer vacation can present unique challenges. Coordinating schedules, dealing with potential conflicts, and ensuring that the children have a fulfilling experience can be overwhelming. But with effective communication, planning, and making sure to focus on the children, co-parents can navigate summer vacation successfully.

1. Prioritize Communication:
Effective communication is key to successful co-parenting, especially during the summer months. Start by establishing a communication plan with your ex-partner to coordinate schedules, activities, and any other important details. Utilize various communication channels such as email, text messages, or co-parenting apps to stay connected and informed.

2. Create a Detailed Schedule:
Developing a detailed summer schedule can help alleviate confusion and reduce potential conflicts. Sit down with your ex-partner to create a comprehensive calendar that outlines the timesharing schedule, vacation plans, and any special events. Be flexible and willing to compromise to accommodate each other’s needs and preferences.

3. Focus on the Children:
When planning summer activities, keep the children’s best interests at the forefront. Consider their preferences, interests, and developmental stages when selecting camps, outings, or vacations. Encourage open communication with your children to ensure that they feel heard and valued during this time of transition.

4. Maintain Consistency:
Consistency is crucial for children, especially during periods of change. Try to maintain consistency in routines, rules, and expectations between households to provide stability and security. Coordinate bedtime routines, meal schedules, and screen time limits to create a sense of continuity for the children.

5. Be Flexible and Cooperative:
Flexibility is essential when navigating co-parenting arrangements, particularly during summer vacation. Be willing to adjust schedules, accommodate last-minute changes, and make compromises when necessary. Practice empathy and understanding towards your ex-partner’s perspective, and work together to find solutions that benefit the children.

6. Encourage Quality Time:
Summer vacation provides an excellent opportunity for children to bond with both parents and create lasting memories. Encourage quality time with each parent by planning fun activities, outings, or mini-vacations. Focus on creating positive experiences that strengthen the parent-child relationship and foster a sense of connection and belonging.

7. Manage Expectations:
It’s essential to manage both your own and your children’s expectations during summer vacation. Understand that not every moment will be perfect, and there may be challenges along the way. Be patient, and focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems.

8. Seek Support When Needed:
Navigating summer vacation as a separated or divorced parent can be emotionally taxing at times. Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family members, or a therapist if you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed. Surround yourself with a supportive network that can offer guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear when needed.

Conclusion:
Managing summer vacation with children after separation requires patience, communication, and a commitment to prioritizing the children’s well-being above all else. By maintaining open communication, creating a detailed schedule, and focusing on the children’s needs, co-parents can navigate this challenging time successfully. Remember to be flexible, cooperative, and proactive in addressing any issues that may arise, and above all, cherish the moments spent with your children as they create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Navigating the Holidays During Divorce: A Divorce Attorney’s Guide

Wendy Norman — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 13:46:14 +0000

7 Steps For Surviving The Holidays After Separation

The holiday season is meant to be a time of joy, love, and togetherness. However, for those going through a divorce, it can be an emotional minefield. As divorce attorneys, we understand the challenges that arise during this time, and we are here to offer some valuable tips on navigating the holidays during a divorce.

1. Communication is Key:

Open and honest communication is crucial, especially during the holiday season. If you share children, discuss plans in advance with your ex-spouse. If there is not a Parenting Plan already in place, establish a clear schedule for holiday celebrations, ensuring both parties have ample time with the children. Being transparent and cooperative can help avoid unnecessary tension.

2. Create New Traditions:

Traditions may have played a significant role in past holiday celebrations, but now is the perfect time to start fresh. Establish new traditions for yourself and your children. Whether it’s a special meal, a movie night, or a weekend getaway, creating new memories can help shift the focus away from the challenges of the divorce process.

3. Be Flexible and Realistic:

Flexibility is key when navigating the holidays during a divorce. Understand that plans may need to adapt, and unexpected emotions may arise. Be realistic about what you can handle emotionally and physically, and don’t be afraid to make adjustments to your plans as needed.

4. Self-Care Matters:

During a divorce, taking care of yourself is paramount. The holidays can be emotionally draining, so make sure to prioritize self-care. Whether it’s a spa day, a quiet evening with a good book, or spending time with supportive friends and family, taking care of your well-being will help you navigate the season with less stress.

5. Set Boundaries:

Establishing clear boundaries is essential during the holiday season. If certain events or gatherings are too emotionally charged, it’s okay to politely decline invitations. Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being, and communicate your boundaries to others involved.

6. Celebrate Separately, if Necessary:

While the ideal situation would be a harmonious celebration together, it’s not always possible. If emotions are too raw or conflicts are likely to arise, consider celebrating separately. This can provide a sense of stability and allow each party to enjoy the festivities without tension.

7. Seek Professional Support:

If the emotional weight of the holidays becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Whether it’s through therapy, counseling, or support groups, having a safe space to express your feelings can make a significant difference during this challenging time.

Navigating the holidays during a divorce requires patience, understanding, and a commitment to your well-being and that of your loved ones. As divorce attorneys, we encourage our clients to approach this season with a proactive mindset, embracing the opportunity for growth and the creation of new, positive memories. By implementing these tips, you can navigate the holidays with grace and resilience, paving the way for a healthier and happier future.

The post Navigating the Holidays During Divorce: A Divorce Attorney’s Guide first appeared on Divorce Attorney Jacksonville, FL.

Are There Things I Should Not Tell My Divorce Attorney?

Wendy Norman — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 03:54:23 +0000

Are There Things You Should Not Tell Your Divorce Attorney?

Divorce can be a difficult and emotional process, and it’s important to work with a lawyer who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. You may be wondering what you should and should not tell your divorce lawyer. Some things may be embarrassing and you may not want to talk about them.

However, other than telling your divorce lawyer false or misleading information, you should tell your divorce lawyer everything so that he or she is fully aware of your situation and can help you. Hiding information can seriously harm your credibility and damage your case, especially if that information comes out in court and surprises your divorce lawyer.

So, what SHOULD you tell your divorce lawyer?

If your spouse has hidden assets: Tell your divorce lawyer if you think your spouse is hiding or not disclosing assets. Your divorce lawyer can use private investigators and other experts to track down hidden assets.
Information about substance abuse: If you or your spouse have substance abuse issues, or have had them in the past, your divorce lawyer needs to know. Untreated substance abuse and untreated mental health issues can make a big difference when a court is deciding what is in the children’s best interests.
Information about your spouse’s infidelity: While infidelity may be a factor in your decision to divorce, it’s not always relevant to the legal process. However, it is one of the factors a court considers when determining alimony and if your spouse is spending marital funds on the affair(s), it can also impact the distribution of marital assets and debts. It can even be something the court considers in determining timesharing and parental responsibility.
If there has been domestic violence: Your divorce attorney needs to know if there has been violence in the home. Your attorney may advise you to seek an injunction (restraining order) against your spouse so that you and the children are safe.
If you are not sure if you should tell your divorce lawyer about something, tell your lawyer anyway. Your divorce lawyer would rather have information that is not relevant than not to have all of the important facts and details about your marriage.

Call 904.306.9926 For Assitance

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How A Florida Judge Determines Best Interest Of The Child

Wendy Norman — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 16:29:01 +0000

How Does A Court Determine The Best Interest of the Child?

In previous posts, we talked about how a Judge crafts a parenting plan. Judges look at Florida law, under which there are factors used to determine a child’s best interest. Florida Statute 61.13(3)(a-l) were discussed in detail. In this post, the next factors, more specifically Florida Statute 61.13 (m-t), are listed below and discussed:

(m) Evidence of domestic violence, sexual violence, child abuse, child abandonment, or child neglect, regardless of whether a prior or pending action relating to those issues has been brought. If the court accepts evidence of prior or pending actions regarding domestic violence, sexual violence, child abuse, child abandonment, or child neglect, the court must specifically acknowledge in writing that such evidence was considered when evaluating the best interests of the child.

(n) Evidence that either parent has knowingly provided false information to the court regarding any prior or pending action regarding domestic violence, sexual violence, child abuse, child abandonment, or child neglect.

(o) The particular parenting tasks customarily performed by each parent and the division of parental responsibilities before the institution of litigation and during the pending litigation, including the extent to which parenting responsibilities were undertaken by third parties.

(p) The demonstrated capacity and disposition of each parent to participate and be involved in the child’s school and extracurricular activities.

(q) The demonstrated capacity and disposition of each parent to maintain an environment for the child which is free from substance abuse.

(r) The capacity and disposition of each parent to protect the child from the ongoing litigation as demonstrated by not discussing the litigation with the child, not sharing documents or electronic media related to the litigation with the child, and refraining from disparaging comments about the other parent to the child.

(s) The developmental stages and needs of the child and the demonstrated capacity and disposition of each parent to meet the child’s developmental needs.

(t) Any other factor that is relevant to the determination of a specific parenting plan, including the time-sharing schedule.

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Subsection (m) requires the Court to look at evidence of domestic violence and/or sexual violence such as injunctions or arrests; child abuse, child abandonment, and/or child neglect such as Department of Children and Families reports; or any witness testimony of such evidence such as testimony from children’s therapists or teachers.

Subsection (n) examines evidence where a parent has provided false information to the Court about any of these issues.

Subsection (o) is a chance for parents to show who normally cared for the minor children before a divorce or custody case and what parenting tasks they did. If third parties such as daycare or family members cared for the children, then the Court wants to know that.

Subsection (p) requires parents to present evidence of the children’s school and extracurricular activities and who is involved in those activities. Who primarily talks to the children’s teachers and takes an active role in the children’s activities?

Subsection (q) requires parents to be free from substance abuse and keep the children sheltered from any substance abuse issues. This subsection can refer to legal prescription drugs or illegal drugs, as well as alcohol. Drug screens, breathalyzers, and substance abuse evaluations may be potential evidence regarding this factor.

Subsection (r) means that the Court wants to see that the parents are not trying to discuss the case with the children and “turn” the children against the other parent. Sharing Court documents or social media with a child is very detrimental to the child’s well-being. Disparaging a parent to a child is strongly discouraged and judges do not like to see that taking place.

Subsection (s) is all about what the needs of the child are such as tutoring, IEP or 504 plans, special education, etc. The Court wants to see which parent is most capable to meet those needs.

Subsection (t) is any other factor that is relevant to a parenting plan and to the children. Are there any reasons why a particular schedule would not work?

Taken altogether, these factors help the Court decide what is in a child’s best interest and how to craft a time-sharing schedule and parenting plan that works for the individual needs of that family.

Wendy Norman is a family law and divorce attorney in Jacksonville, FL.

The post How A Florida Judge Determines Best Interest Of The Child first appeared on Divorce Attorney Jacksonville, FL.

What A Judge Looks For When Determining a Parenting Plan

Wendy Norman — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 13:35:14 +0000

What Does A Judge Look For When Determining A Parenting Plan?

In a previous post, it was discussed general rules for crafting a parenting plan after divorce. Let’s look at how a Judge crafts a parenting plan. A Judge looks at Florida law which sets out the factors to consider to determine a child’s best interest. The factors in Florida Statute 61.13(3)(a-e) were discussed in detail.

In this post, the next few factors, more specifically Florida Statute 61.13 (f-l), are listed below and discussed:

(f) The moral fitness of the parents.
(g) The mental and physical health of the parents.
(h) The home, school, and community record of the child.
(i) The reasonable preference of the child, if the court deems the child to be of sufficient intelligence, understanding, and experience to express a preference.
(j) The demonstrated knowledge, capacity, and disposition of each parent to be informed of the circumstances of the minor child, including, but not limited to, the child’s friends, teachers, medical care providers, daily activities, and favorite things.
(k) The demonstrated capacity and disposition of each parent to provide a consistent routine for the child, such as discipline, and daily schedules for homework, meals, and bedtime.
(l) The demonstrated capacity of each parent to communicate with and keep the other parent informed of issues and activities regarding the minor child, and the willingness of each parent to adopt a unified front on all major issues when dealing with the child.

Subsection (f) means the Court wants to hear about the any negative behavior by either parent that directly impacts the minor child. Some examples might be drug abuse or other illegal behavior, and arrests. Exposing the child to inappropriate behavior will be considered by a Judge under with this factor.

Subsection (g) is exactly what you would imagine – a Judge wants to know about the mental health of the parents and the physical health of the parents. A long history of mental health issues that directly affects the minor child is important for a Judge to know about and consider. The physical health of the parent is also important; a Judge wants to know which parent is better physically able to take care of the children.

Subsection (h) means the Court wants to know how the child is doing in school, what activities the child is involved in, and how the child functions at home. A Judge will review consider if the child has had discipline issues at school or has been in trouble with law enforcement.

With Subsection (i), the Court does not want a young child to be asked which parent he or she wants to live with if the child is not emotionally developed enough to do so. There is no “magic age” in Florida at which a child gets to decide which parent he or she will spend wants to live with; this is decided on a case-by-case basis and Judges prefer to keep children of all ages, even older teenagers, out of the courtroom unless absolutely necessary.

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When reviewing Subsection (j), a Judge wants to hear about each parent’s involvement with the child. Does the parent know the child’s doctor and attend medical appointments? Does the parent know who the child’s friends are? Does the parent know who the child’s teachers are? Is the parent involved in the child’s extracurricular activities? If a parent does not know those types of things, chances are he or she is not very involved in the child’s life.

Section (k) gives a parent the opportunity to tell the Judge what the child’s routine is while the child is with that parent. What is the child’s bedtime? How does the parent ensure that homework is done? When is dinner time? A parent should be able to describe a typical day in the life of the child to the Judge. A parent should also be able to explain their style of discipline for the child.

Section (l) focuses on which parent is best at working with the other parent the best interest of the child. It is important to keep the other parent informed of appointments and issues with the child. When the child misbehaves, are both parents supportive of each other and unified? Or does one parent try to be the “fun” parent, undermining the other parent’s discipline efforts? The Court wants to see the parents trying to cooperate with each other and co-parenting.

Please look for an analysis of the final best interest factors to come. You can also contact our Jacksonville divorce attorney office at: 904.306.9926 to request a consultation.

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Parenting Plan After Divorce In Florida

Wendy Norman — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 14:54:25 +0000

Agreeing On A Parenting Plan After A Divorce In Florida & The Best Interest Of The Child

One of the most important things for parents to agree on in a divorce is the parenting plan. The parenting plan is a roadmap for how parental responsibility, timesharing, holidays, exchanges of the child or children and other issues will be handled. Sometimes it is very difficult to agree to terms in a parenting plan and a Judge will have to craft a parenting plan for the parents. How does a Judge decide?

Florida law requires the Court to consider the child’s best interest from a list factors you can find in Florida Statute 61.13(3)(a-t). The first few factors are listed below:

(a) The demonstrated capacity and disposition of each parent to facilitate and encourage a close and continuing parent-child relationship, to honor the time-sharing schedule, and to be reasonable when changes are required.
(b) The anticipated division of parental responsibilities after the litigation, including the extent to which parental responsibilities will be delegated to third parties.
(c) The demonstrated capacity and disposition of each parent to determine, consider, and act upon the needs of the child as opposed to the needs or desires of the parent.
(d) The length of time the child has lived in a stable, satisfactory environment and the desirability of maintaining continuity.
(e) The geographic viability of the parenting plan, with special attention paid to the needs of school-age children and the amount of time to be spent traveling to effectuate the parenting plan. This factor does not create a presumption for or against relocation of either parent with a child.

Subsection (a) means that the Court wants to hear that a parent will encourage the child to have a relationship with the other parent and take steps to make that happen. The Court also wants to know that the parents will honor the schedule or order regarding timesharing and the parents are reasonable if changes in the schedule are needed. For example, if a child were sick and could not travel, the parents would think about the child’s needs before their own and adjust the schedule. Subsection (c) is very similar to this, in that the parents act for the best interests of the child rather than themselves when making decisions for the child.

When reviewing Subsection (b), the Court wants to know which parent will be spending the most time with the child. If a child is at daycare 40 hours a week due to one parent’s work schedule, it may be better for the child to be with the other parent during the week because they work from home and can take care of the child daily.

Subsection (d) means that the Court will review where the child has lived the majority of his or her life and who was the primary caretaker and will try to maintain that stability for the child as much as possible. The key to the parenting plan for the child or children is to have minimal disruption in their lives due to the divorce.

Subsection (e) requires the Court to consider at how practical travel for timesharing will be. Geographically, what type of schedule will ensure that the children spend the least amount of time and discomfort traveling? The Court also takes into account where the child’s school is and how far it is from each parent, among other things. If a parent needs to relocate, the parent can do so, but the parenting plan will have to take into account the travel needs of the child or children.

Please look for more analysis of best interest factors to come.

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